Dog Rescued From Thin Ice in Colorado

SUMMIT COUNTY, COLORADO - A Jack Russell terrier was reunited with his owners after some tense moments when the dog ended up stuck on the partially frozen Tiger Road dredge pond. The Vargas family from Frisco was on their way back from a hike when their dog Jonah slipped his leash and chased after ducks that were out on the pond.

"He was running around and all of a sudden he just froze," said Rod Vargas. "I think he looked down and realized where he was."

When Jonah refused to move, the family called 911.

Animal Control Officer Ian Andrews was the first on scene, and did his best to keep the family calm until Special Operations Sergeant Cale Osborn from the Sheriff's Office arrived with a dry suit. Osborn used a log to help coach Jonah towards him, then carefully slid them both back towards shore.

Vargas had nothing but praise for Jonah's rescuers.

"We told all our friends. It was so touching what they did," said Vargas. "I know for them it was probably something they deal with daily,but for us it was a big deal."

Jonah doesn't appear to have suffered any ill effects from his time on the ice; however, the incident should serve as a warning to other pet owners.

"This time of year, you should assume that no ice is safe," said Sheriff John Minor. "Keep your pet on a leash, and don't go out on theice after your pet. Hypothermia can render you unconscious in less than 15 minutes."

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